How to Replace Lost Car Keys
Car keys are lost is a nightmare. This wasn't an issue until recently however, as cars become more technologically advanced, it's becoming more difficult.
You can lose your keys when you accidentally knock them off the table when you reach into your pocket to grab something other. A spare key in the house can help you avoid such situations.
1. Contact a locksmith
Losing your car keys can be a major inconvenience. There's no need to panic. If you know what to do and who to call to get your car keys replaced will be a matter of a few steps.
One of the first things you need to do is try and try to retrace your steps. This may seem like a simple task but it isn't easy to do when you're in a hurry or are already worried about the loss of keys to your car. Be sure to look in all your pockets and bags where you might have set them down, and also the surrounding area around your vehicle.
Call a locksmith if you can't find your car keys. Locksmiths are able to create a key for your car faster than an auto dealer. They can also do it for much less than the dealership will charge.
Some dealerships can make replacement car keys as well however they might not be able do it for you immediately or at all. They typically have a high volume of customers, so they may not be able to accommodate your request right away. They may not also be able create an exact copy of your existing key.
You can also purchase a replacement key online. You can find them on Amazon and other websites for much cheaper than you'd buy from a dealer, although they may not be able to cut or program them to the specific model of car you have.
Some insurance policies also provide coverage for the cost of replacing a stolen or lost car key. It is worth examining your insurance policy to determine if it will cover the cost of replacing a car key. Remember that you'll have to prove ownership and identification to the person or company who makes the replacement key. This is required by law. If you're unable to prove ownership, it can be a very expensive experience.
2. Contact the Dealership
Not too long ago the possibility of misplacing or losing your car keys was not an issue. It wasn't expensive to get an alternative key from the dealer. This is no longer the case since cars are more sophisticated and keys are more expensive. If you lose your keys today, it's not uncommon to spend hundreds of dollars to get them replaced.
If what do you think 've lost your car keys, the first thing you should do is be calm. This will help you think clearly and make the right decision. If you lose your original keys, you should have an extra set of keys in your pocket or car trunk. This will ensure that you are not in financial trouble. Check to see if your warranty or insurance covers the cost of a key replacement. This could help you save money in the event of a crisis.
The next step is to do a thorough search of your home, vehicle and your wallet or purse for the missing keys. You can also retrace the steps you took, remembering the last time you had your keys and where you were at the time you lost them. This might assist you in determining where they ended up and can be an immense relief.
After you've conducted an exhaustive search but can't locate your car keys, the next option is to call your dealership. Dealerships are familiar with your specific vehicle, so they're the best option to get a replacement key. However, they're typically busy and aren't able to accommodate customers at short notice, which could make the process difficult.
If you get in touch with your dealer, they will be able create keys for you using the VIN number that is saved on their system. They can also reprogram the immobilizer device that's required to start your vehicle. Locksmiths are a good option when you need a quick and reliable solution that doesn't require you to wait in the dealership.
3. Call Your Insurance Company
Not too long ago, misplacing your car keys wasn't a big deal. You could call a locksmith to travel to your place of residence and duplicate your keys for a reasonable fee. As cars have become technologically advanced, the keys have also become more expensive.
Depending on the type of vehicle and year, replacing a lost key could be a lengthy process and cost hundreds of dollars. That's why it's always an excellent idea to keep an additional set of keys on your side, especially if you reside in a neighborhood that is dangerous or an area where theft is common.
It may seem like a waste to contact your insurance company however it could save you money over the course of time. Certain policies will cover the cost of a new car key, so be sure to check with your insurance company before you lose one and you find yourself in need.
If your policy covers roadside assistance, it is advisable to think about this. If it does, the company could send someone out to assist you out of your situation which could be less stressful than dealing with a locksmith or dealership.
Before calling your insurance company, make sure to thoroughly search for your keys. If you believe they're in the car, look under the trunk and under the seat. Check the pockets of your clothing and other places where you may have been used to putting them. You should also double-check the areas you may have put them, such as your purse or desk.
Contact your dealer for replacement of the keys after you've tried to locate them. Most of the time, this won't be a problem, and it will cost less than hiring a locksmith, or going through the insurance company.
While you're at the dealer it is possible to inquire whether you can have a spare key made, particularly in the event that you don't have an actual key fob. Usually the dealership will be able to make an extra key for you, without changing anything else inside your car. If you do this, make sure to keep the key in a safe and secure place to locate it the next time you lose it.
4. Call the police
Not only can the act of reporting lost car keys to police help you find them however, it can also help keep you safe from thieves. If someone steals your vehicle without permission, they may be subject to fines if they drive it on city streets or on private property. You can protect yourself by registering your keys stolen before someone steals your vehicle. This will leave a trail of paper that shows who and when they reported the theft.
Car keys are lost is a frequent occurrence however it doesn't have to be to be a disaster. If you contact the appropriate people, you'll be capable of obtaining an alternative key quickly and easily. If you follow the suggestions in this article, you'll even be able to prevent any future key loss!
Take a step back. This will give you a clear idea of where your key could have been lost and can help you remember what you were doing at the time. If you were driving to work, then stopped at a restaurant to get some food You may recall that your keys were in your pocket when you left the car. If you are unable to locate your key, you might have put it in the bag that you used to carry around things or on the table you dined at.
Another option is to share your primary loss online. This will reach a large audience and increase your chances of finding it. You can also check with local businesses and other bulletin boards.
It's crucial to note down the VIN of your vehicle before you begin looking for your keys. This information is needed to replace your keys, therefore you should keep it in a safe place. The VIN is typically located on your driver's license, but can also be found on your insurance card or in the owner's manual of your vehicle.
Contact the police after you've exhausted all other options. You can request an interim replacement vehicle from the police department, and they'll also file reports that are useful should your keys ever be recovered.